The Play

This multi-award winning play transports audiences to the turbulent backstage world of London’s Theatre Royal in the mid-1800s. Edmund Kean, the greatest Shakespearean actor of his age, collapses on stage while performing the lead in Othello. He is replaced by a young, black actor, Ira Aldridge—a first for the role on London’s West End. As a bill in Parliament promoting the abolition of slavery sends shock waves through the streets, how will London react to his performance? Gary Griffin, director of last fall’s “must-see” King Charles III, stages this fascinating true story of a pivotal figure in theater history, featuring Stratford Festival favorite and celebrated actor Dion Johnstone as Ira Aldridge.

WATCH & LISTEN

Video: Audiences connect to Red Velvet

Video: Lolita Chakrabarti talks Red Velvet

Gallery: In Production: Red Velvet

Video: Red Velvet Trailer

Gallery: In Rehearsal: Red Velvet

Audio: Red Velvet - Pre•Amble with Ira Murfin, December 16, 2017

Audio: Red Velvet - Pre•Amble with Sara B.T. Thiel, December 30, 2017

Audio: Post Show Discussion: Actor Tiffany Renee Johnson responds to a question about her character

Audio: Post Show Discussion: Actor Greg Matthew Anderson responds to a comment from the audience

Audio: Post Show Discussion: Actor Chaon Cross responds to a question about empathy

Audio: Post Show Discussion: Actor Dion Johnstone responds to a question from the audience

Audio: Post Show Discussion: Actor Tiffany Renee Johnson responds to a question from the audience

Audio: RED VELVET - PRE•AMBLE WITH CASEY CALDWELL, JANUARY 6, 2018

Audio: RED VELVET - PRE•AMBLE WITH REGINA BUCCOLA, JANUARY 7, 2018

Audio: Post Show Discussion: Actor Dion Johnstone responds to a question from the audience